On April 24, 2006, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) recognized and awarded Florida law enforcement officers who arrested 100 or more drunk drivers during 2005. This special recognition began on the steps of the Old Capitol building where MADD held a press conference to publicly thank the law enforcement officers for their efforts. Among the recipients of this year’s award were 13 of our own FHP troopers.

MADD hosted a luncheon at the Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center where all of the law enforcement honorees received a beautiful crystal award. The highlight of the ceremony was the presention of the Patrol's highest DUI award, the Hurd-Smith Award This special award honors Trooper Kimberly Hurd and Trooper Robbie Smith, who were both tragically killed by drunk drivers in separate incidents. This year's award was presented by Colonel Christopher Knight to Trooper Richard Nardiello. Trooper Nardiello (since promoted to Corporal), is the only multiple winner of this award; winning in 2002, 2005, and 2006.

Following the press conference and luncheon the troopers were presented with a special "100 Club" award by Colonel Knight during a ceremony held at the FHP Academy, with family, friends, FHP Executive Staff, Troop Commanders, and new recruits in attendance.

The 13 troopers honored by MADD and the Florida Highway Patrol arrested collectively a total of 1,522 drunk drivers during 2005. These troopers are to be commended for their dedication and commitment and continued efforts to remove impaired drivers from our highways.